Neon Tommy

thedailywhat:

Occupy Movement News Update of the Day: At approximately 4:45 AM PT this morning, some 500 Oakland police officers in full riot gear entered Frank H. Ogawa Plaza in front of City Hall, and proceeded to dismantle the tent city erected by members of Occupy Oakland two weeks ago.

Protesters attempted to fend off the police with firecrackers, a fire extinguisher, and stolen police barriers, but were shut down after 30 minutes.

The official Occupy Oakland Twitter feed called the early morning raid a “surprise assault,” and claimed many were injured after officers fired tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bang grenades at a crowd of about 300 campers.

Police Chief Howard Jordan later countered that report at a City Hall press briefing, saying the operation went smoothly, and no injuries were sustained by either police or protesters. Officials did confirm that tear gas was used along with “bean bag rounds,” and said an investigation will be conducted.

At least 85 people were arrested according The Oakland Tribute, which has posted some photos of the raid. 

Mayor Jean Quan released a statement saying that both the demonstrators and the city had lost the ability to “maintain safe or sanitary conditions, or control the ongoing vandalism,” requiring the tent city’s disbanding. Quan invited peaceful protesters to return to the plaza to exercise their first amendment rights during park hours.

Occupy Oakland has asked demonstrators to meet up at the city’s public library at 4 PM local time. Other Occupied cities have announced solidarity marches.

Meanwhile, both Occupy Atlanta and Occupy Baltimore are preparing for a similar showdown with police.

[ows: 1,2 / oaktrib: 1,2 / 11alive.]

Related: Occupy Wall Street: The Book.